ISLAMABAD: The newly appointed Chinese Cultural Counselor, Chen Peng, on Monday reaffirmed China’s commitment to furthering cultural cooperation with Pakistan during a special meeting hosted by Chairman Pakistan Cultural Forum (PCF) Zafar Bakhtawari.
Held at Bakhtawari’s residence, the event brought together notable personalities, including Ahsan Bakhtawari, Chairman of the Clean and Green Islamabad Movement, and Waqar Bakhtawari, former President of the Chakwal Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
The meeting, conducted in an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding, focused on exploring new avenues for deepening cultural relations between the two countries. Key discussions revolved around initiating cultural exchange programs, organizing artistic collaborations, and fostering stronger people-to-people ties.
Chen Peng, who was recently appointed to his role as Cultural Counselor, expressed deep appreciation for the warm welcome extended to him. He emphasized the significance of cultural diplomacy and outlined several projects aimed at strengthening bilateral ties. These initiatives, according to Chen, include the organization of Chinese film festivals, martial arts exhibitions, and programs focused on engaging Pakistan’s youth.
“We are focused on the younger generation,” said Chen Peng. “Our goal is to bridge cultural gaps and promote enduring friendships between Pakistan and China through various cultural initiatives.”
He also highlighted the importance of language in enhancing relations, noting that efforts would be made to promote the Chinese language in Pakistan. Chen emphasized that language is an essential tool for strengthening mutual understanding and pointed to future plans to offer Chinese language courses and organize student exchange programs.
Zafar Bakhtawari, Chairman of PCF, reiterated the Forum’s four-decade-long commitment to promoting cultural diplomacy. He stressed the importance of the China-Pakistan relationship and underscored the role of cultural exchanges in advancing ties. Bakhtawari highlighted the significance of programs like food festivals, film screenings, and joint artistic collaborations in fostering cultural connectivity.
“This partnership with China is an opportunity to continue the legacy of friendship and cooperation between our two nations,” Bakhtawari stated.
Ahsan Bakhtawari, who also attended the meeting, emphasized that cultural diplomacy should go hand-in-hand with economic collaboration. He pointed to Gwadar as a key strategic point for enhancing not only bilateral trade but also cultural ties. Bakhtawari further highlighted the potential for Pakistan to tap into China’s rapidly growing market, noting that both nations could benefit from closer cultural and economic cooperation.
“China’s emergence as a global market presents immense opportunities for Pakistani exports,” Bakhtawari said. “The Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between our countries is a great step forward, and we should utilize it to enhance trade, especially in sectors like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and textiles.”
Waqar Bakhtawari, a former president of the Chakwal Chamber of Commerce & Industry, also voiced the importance of improving direct air links between Pakistan and China. Drawing from his personal experiences, he explained that stronger connectivity would create more opportunities for trade, cultural exchange, and tourism.
“Strengthening air connectivity is vital,” he said. “It opens doors to a broader range of collaborations between our two countries, which can translate into economic growth and a greater exchange of cultural values.”
The event concluded with a shared commitment to further engaging the youth of both nations through sports, art, and cultural events. Both sides agreed that long-term cultural programs aimed at educating the youth would play an essential role in fostering stronger ties and ensuring the continued success of the bilateral relationship.
The meeting between Chinese Cultural Counselor Chen Peng and Pakistan’s cultural and business leaders underscored the importance of cultural exchange in building lasting friendships. The proposed initiatives will serve to strengthen the longstanding partnership between Pakistan and China, while also offering opportunities for collaboration in various fields, including trade, education, and the arts.
